Entrepreneurship Fund

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“This grant gave me the confidence to take my business to the next level, to create a space to help others and, most importantly, to grow as a social entrepreneur.” — Maria Mendez, Entrepreneurship Fund Grantee

Immigrants Rising’s Entrepreneurship Fund provides grants to undocumented entrepreneurs working to create positive social change. The Fund showcases the talents of undocumented young people and amplifies the positive impact of their work.

In 2019, after a review of 216 proposals from 247 undocumented young people, living in 29 different states and hailing from 40 countries of origin, we have selected six entrepreneurial projects to support through our Entrepreneurship Fund.

These six winning projects were selected based on the importance of the issues they address, the innovation of the strategies they employ, and the positive social impact they will have. The entrepreneurs are working in a variety of industries, including education, film, music, e-commerce, technology, and sustainable farming. Their countries of origin are Togo, Colombia, Mexico, and Kenya.

Winning entrepreneurs will receive individual grants of $20,000-$45,000 and the mentorship and coaching they need for their projects to succeed.

The Fund is made possible with generous support from Chavez Family Foundation; The Grove Foundation; James Gutierrez; Elise Haas, Robert and Colleen Haas; Jeff Hawkins; Jorge Ramos; Unbound Philanthropy; and Elisha Wiesel. Read profiles of our Entrepreneurship Fund Supporters.

Founded in 2006, Immigrants Rising transforms individuals and fuels broader changes. With resources and support, undocumented young people are able to get an education, pursue careers, and build a brighter future for themselves and their community.